The Commemoration of the Passover is a significant observance in the Judeo-Christian tradition, rooted in the historical and theological narrative of the Exodus. It marks the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, as described in the Book of Exodus, and is a foundational event in the history of Israel and its covenant relationship with God.

Biblical Foundation

The Passover is instituted in Exodus 12, where God commands Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites on the observance of this event. The Berean Standard Bible records God's instructions: "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year. Tell the whole congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month, each man must select a lamb for his family, one per household" (Exodus 12:2-3). The lamb, without blemish, was to be slaughtered at twilight, and its blood applied to the doorposts and lintels of the houses. This act served as a sign for the Lord to "pass over" the homes of the Israelites during the final plague—the death of the firstborn in Egypt.

The Passover meal, or Seder, included the roasted lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs, symbolizing the haste of the Israelites' departure and the bitterness of their slavery. The Lord commanded, "This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. You are to eat it in haste; it is the LORD’s Passover" (Exodus 12:11).

Annual Observance

The Passover is to be observed annually as a lasting ordinance. Exodus 12:14 states, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD. You are to celebrate it as a permanent statute for the generations to come." This perpetual observance serves as a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness.

Theological Significance

The Passover holds profound theological significance, symbolizing redemption and liberation. It prefigures the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). The Apostle Paul draws a parallel between Christ and the Passover lamb, stating, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" (1 Corinthians 5:7). This connection underscores the continuity between the Old and New Covenants, highlighting the fulfillment of the Passover in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus.

Christian Observance

In Christian tradition, the commemoration of the Passover is often associated with the celebration of the Lord's Supper, or Communion, which Jesus instituted during the Passover meal with His disciples. The synoptic Gospels recount this event, where Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it, saying, "This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19). Similarly, He took the cup, declaring it as "the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you" (Luke 22:20).

Cultural and Historical Context

The Passover is not only a religious observance but also a cultural and historical event that has shaped Jewish identity and tradition. It is celebrated with various customs and rituals, including the reading of the Haggadah, which recounts the Exodus account, and the singing of traditional songs. The Passover Seder is a time for families to gather, retell the account of deliverance, and instill the values of faith and freedom in future generations.

In summary, the Commemoration of the Passover is a multifaceted observance that encompasses historical remembrance, theological reflection, and cultural celebration. It serves as a testament to God's redemptive power and His enduring covenant with His people.